I just (November) completed the Intensive Brewing Science and Engineering program at the American Brewers Guild. I enrolled back in July 2010. Since I live in Albany, NY, the on-site residential week in Middlebury, VT at Drop-In Brewing Co. was not far to travel, but many classmates came from all over for that week.

Not much to be honest. I've heard a couple things...it's a bit bit expensive. Also heard it's mostly science and not a lot of brewing education. I have no idea if this is true. Could be wrong. Looking into this though currently...

I'm enrolled in the CBA class that starts in January 2014 and I'm incredibly excited. For me, it's one more step in gaining knowledge that will help me open my own micro in 5-7 years.

Can't really add much, as I obviously haven't started yet. I can talk about the application process if you'd like, but it's pretty straightforward. They did send the course materials, so I've been reading them a bit. Also, I'm hoping that my GI Bill will pay for it, but I'll start that battle next month.

I've seen two broad categories of job listings for head brewers. One is strictly a beer maker, usually for a large(er) brewery. The other is a beer maker + business manager, usually in smaller breweries.

Most brewer jobs just require "any" formal certificate or degree, so the BG program would be useful.

If you want to work for a smaller brewery, you'll probably be more desirable if you can wear multiple hats, eg you have all the technical brewing skills, plus management skills (like, budgeting and people herding).